The IDOC last month refused my public records request for the winning proposal to replace JPay services. Per Idaho Code, claims the department, trade secret information contained within the proposal exempts it from public disclosure.
In the past, the IDOC has filled my requests for similar proposals and contracts with sensitive information redacted. It’s only within the last nine months that it has denied my lawful efforts to inform you of its business dealings, evening going so far as to claim that the publicly registered name of one its contractors is “trade secret information.” (Click to view documents.)
Whatever.
The following memo appears to be the maximum amount of information that the IDOC is currently comfortable sharing about its new service provider. It was posted in my dayroom February 7, 2025.
“Resident Communications Update/Memo #1”
The contract between IDOC and IC Solutions has been updated to include a transition to a new tablet system. The exact transition date is still being determined. We anticipate the transition to begin during the month of May 2025. IDOC will communicate additional details, including the proposed transition schedule, as the plan is finalized.
IDOC is working diligently to minimize the impact of these changes, but we also recognize that these changes can cause concern and raise questions which we will try to address through regular weekly communication with you.
1. JPay tablet technology is becoming obsolete. New tablets will replace the current JPay tablets and will be available for each resident, at no charge. Each resident will also receive one set of ear buds (with microphone) and one charger. Replacement ear buds and chargers will be available for purchase through commisary.
2. Kiosks will be replaced with a panel (docking station) to be used for video visits. Your tablet will be utilized for video visits by placing the tablet into the docking station.
3. In coming weeks, you may see technicians in your facility completing a site survey. The results of the site survey will provide us with a more detailed timeline and a more accurate transition date.
4. Due to the amount of time it takes to order and receive a JPay tablet, it is recommended to not order a tablet after Thursday, February 06, 2025.
5. The information on your current JPay tablets will not transfer to the new tablets.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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- What about all the things I have on my JPay tablet?
— Per JPay, the content on your JPay tablet can be accessed for 30 days from the last sync to a kiosk.
— We have reports that some JPay tablets are working beyond 30 days, however, IDOC cannot guarantee this functionality.
— You will be allowed to keep the JPay tablet as long as it is functional and doesn’t become a security concern.
— There is a process if you would like your tablet unlocked and sent to a residential address. More to come on this process . . . - Is it worth it to buy a JPay tablet?
— It is not recommended after Thursday, February 6th. Please keep in mind the delivery of a newly purchased tablet takes approximately 45 business days, which would put delivery on April 7th or later. - What if I buy music, games, or other content for my JPay tablet after February 6th?
— Please refer to the information above and know that you may only have access for 30 days from the last sync to a kiosk. Purchase additional content at your own risk. - What will happen to the current kiosks?
— After the deployment of the new tablets, the current kiosks will be removed from all IDOC facilities. The new tablets communicate wirelessly with the network and kiosks are no longer needed.
- What about all the things I have on my JPay tablet?
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We understand your excitement and curiosity. IDOC will continue to provide you with information on the change, rates and fees, overall functionality, services, and timelines on a weekly basis through scheduled communications related to this change. If you identify other concerns or questions, please feel free to submit a concern form to Central Office — Contracts.
IDOC Data Sensitivity Classification — L3 Restricted
First, who puts trade secrets in proposals? That’s absurd! The info on tablets won’t transfer to the new device? That’s not acceptable! There needs to be a way for purchased media to be put on the new device. I would never approve a contract that doesn’t make my client whole with regard to what they currently own. This should be escalated and revisited.